Biographie
Khariton Vlasov started skating at the very early age of three. His parents wanted him to grow up as a healthy person. Since his older brother played professional hockey, his parents wanted Khariton to do the same. He really liked the game and managed to play a little at professional level. For a few years, he was connected to the main team of Sibir Novosibirsk (KHL). Embarking on his third ice cross downhill season in 2014, Vlasov is an adrenaline junkie always looking for a new challenge. He started to compete in the fastest sport on skates in Moscow, in 2011. Since then, he has been striving to swing down the ice tracks filled with jumps, bumps, and hairpin turns.
How long have you been competing in ice cross downhill?
I first got to know Red Bull Crashed Ice in Moscow in 2011. From the 2012 season, I've participated in every stage of the world championship, except for the last two races in 2013 when I got an injury.
What first made you interested in the sport?
My parents put me on skates at age 3. They wanted me to grow up a healthy person. Since my older brother played professional hockey, my parents wanted me to do the same. I really like the game, and I'm working hard. I managed to play a little at a professional level. For a few years I was connected to the main team of Sibir Novosibirsk (KHL).
If there is one piece of advice that you could offer new riders, what would it be?
My advice to beginners is be careful on the road, and avoid unnecessary injury. Downhill skating is a very intense sport, and it is very easy to get injured, and that could be the end of you playing sport.
What is your best result or favourite memory at a Red Bull Crashed Ice?
Most of all I remember the stage in the Netherlands in the 2013 season. It was a very complex and fast track. A lot of guys got injured but I took seventh place, which is my best result.
Which stop on the 2014 calendar are you most looking forward to and why?
The most important race for me is of course in Russia. Doing your country proud is a very serious matter; I will need to perform at my very best.
Who is your favourite sportsman?
I've never really had idols in sport. I've always just tried to be as good as my older brother! He also played hockey at professional level, and he was an inspiration for me in the sport. If we're talking about modern athletes, though, I really like the game of Paul Datcyuk. He's a very clever and skilful hockey player!